Daniel Farke hailed Dominic Calvert-Lewin as an “outstanding” striker after Leeds United produced a commanding 4-1 victory over Newcastle United at Elland Road on Monday.
Leeds Utd maintained their unbeaten Premier League start, moving up to third in the table while handing Newcastle Utd boss Matthias Jaissle his first defeat since taking charge.
The hosts were relentless from the outset, with Lewis Miley’s own goal opening the scoring before Jayden Bogle doubled Leeds’ advantage.
Calvert-Lewin then added a third in first-half stoppage time, while Noah Okafor completed the rout after the break. Newcastle’s Bazoumana Touré scored a late consolation.
Almost perfect
Farke was delighted with his side’s performance, although he admitted the late concession prevented it from being perfect.
“I wasn’t happy that we allowed them to score one goal. But, it doesn’t take anything away from the fact that my boys were brilliant and we fully deserved to win the game,” Farke told Sky Sports.
“There’s no such thing as a perfect performance though, and this is one of the rare points I have to criticise.”
READ MORE: Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar betting tips, predictions and how to watch
One of the Premier League’s ‘stand out strikers’
The Leeds Utd boss reserved particular praise for Calvert-Lewin, who has now scored eight times in his career against Newcastle, more than against any other opponent.
“He’s in outstanding shape and he plays with lots of confidence,” Farke said. “I expect him to lead the group and he’s taken the responsibility.
“His work rate is top. It’s not just scoring the goals. The way he plays for us is outstanding. He’s definitely one of the stand out strikers in the league.”
Lack of intensity, but confidence remains
Jaissle admitted Newcastle Utd failed to match Leeds’ intensity, particularly during a first half in which the hosts scored three times.
“You need to bring the fundamentals on the pitch against a physical and strong team,” he said.
“Leeds are so intense, especially at home and we couldn’t match that physicality in the first half.”
“Difficult to digest, but this is a chance to learn,” Jaissle added. “There will be no issue with confidence.”
READ NEXT: Manchester United vs Brighton betting tips, predictions and how to watch
